The Game (Wagered Hearts Series, #3)(37)

We walked through the corridor and down the main staircase I had walked up the night before. My eyes widened as I took in the scene before me. The whole place was decked out in extravagant fashion. Workers were polishing the massive crystal chandelier that hung over the foyer while others were scurrying around, and carrying trays and boxes full of who knows what. And the flowers! They were everywhere. It felt like we were in a tropical rainforest.

"It's quite a sight, but hopefully they'll have everything set up in time for the party," Esther said.

"Is this your first time in England?" Stella asked.

We had maneuvered past the bustle of activity and had just made it out the front door, toward one of the walking paths I saw from my bedroom window. The air was chilly, and there was still some morning frost on the ground, but the sun was shining and the view was to die for.

"No, I've been here a couple of times before for work," I said.

"Oh right, Rob tells me you're an actress," Esther said.

Stella let out a low chuckle and turned to her mom with mocking eyes. "Come on Mum, as if you didn't know she was one of the most famous actresses in the world."

"I don't know if that's a compliment or not," I laughed. "Being famous doesn't take much talent. I'd rather have a great career than fame."

"That's very wise of you," Esther said.

"It's just come from years of experience. Fame is a double edged sword. On the one hand, I need it for my career, but at the same time, it can be unbearable."

"Rob said he's been having a hard time adjusting to all the paparazzi and journalists wanting a piece of him now," Stella said thoughtfully.

"Did he say that?" I asked, surprised. "I wouldn't blame him. It's not easy to become an overnight celebrity."

There was that look again! Esther eyed me with open interest and I was sure she was trying to puzzle me out.

"Oh Stella, I forgot to tell your father that his cousin is coming tonight. They only just called me this morning. Be a dear and go tell him for me so that he has ample warning," Esther said.

Stella looked between us, her brows rising in concern, but she left anyway. "Be nice," I heard her whisper to her mother before she left.

"You'll have to excuse my daughter. I don't know where she gets these notions sometimes," she said once Stella had gone.

"No offense taken. I'm guessing you have something you want to say to me in private?" I said, cutting to the chase.

She looked at me consideringly before nodding her head. "My, you are forthright. I think James was right. I do like you."

"Thank you," I said, feeling more pleased than I should. "So what did you want to talk about?"

"Tell me, what has my son has roped you into?" she asked.

"Excuse me?" I said.

I was a little taken aback at her question. I wasn't expecting that. Then again, Rob and I weren't exactly doing a bang up job of looking like a couple who were madly in love. Putting on a show for the public was one thing, but to see us in person, especially how we were yesterday, I wasn't surprised she was suspicious. Rob was distant, and looked like anything but a loving fiancé. And I wasn't helping matters either with my ditzy American act.




I didn't know if Rob would be upset if I let up the gig to his mom. She seemed to suspect it, and judging by how embarrassed he was by my behavior last night, I was sure he'd eventually confess to her if I didn't. This whole scheme was a mess anyways. What did it matter if his mother knew? Our engagement wouldn't last past the winter. I'd be surprised if it even lasted that long.

"I'm sorry if what I say offends you, but I'm not an idiot. I know my son better than anyone, and it wouldn't surprise me if he'd concocted this little charade to get back at me. He's always been as stubborn as a mule and even more headstrong. So be honest with me. Are you really in love with my son or is this whole engagement an elaborate ruse?"

I didn't know what to say. I could just imagine her reaction if I told her the truth. Yes I was in love, and yes it was a fake.

"I don't know what to tell you," I finally said. "It's complicated."

She waited for me to explain and I searched my mind for any explanation that would satisfy her. In the end, I was saved from answering by Stella, who had come back from her task. She was out of breath when she reached us, as if she'd jogged the whole way back. I almost wanted to kiss her for her perfect timing.

"Sorry it took me so long," she said. "Dad says he'll be ready."

"You didn't have to run the whole way there and back," Esther said, looking bemused and a little miffed.

"It was good exercise," Stella replied, bent doubled over with her hand on her hip.

We walked back into the house and I was glad to be going my separate way. Before I could head back up to my room, Esther stopped me with a hand on my arm. I looked at her and was surprised to see a look of understanding and kindness on her face.

"I think my first impression of you was wrong. Rob is very lucky to have you, whatever your relationship may be."

I was so taken aback by her words, I just stood there, tongue tied and staring at her with my mouth hanging open. "Right, thanks," I finally managed to say.